His father, Al Toon, was a first-round draft pick of the New York Jets and was one of the league's most consistent receivers. In his eight-year career, Al Toon had 507 receptions in 107 games. It's no surprise that Nick Toon has developed into one of the top receivers in the Midwest and is one of the players that will play for the East squad in the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl.

"I was surprised, excited and really honored to be part of the game," Toon said. "It was always one of my goals to be in one of these games. When I heard that I had an invite, I was real excited and really pumped."

Toon is committed to Wisconsin, his father's alma mater. The Badgers coaches encouraged Toon to play in the game that will be broadcast live on ESPNU on Jan. 4 from Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

"They were very excited about it," Toon said. "Coach Bielema was very enthused about me being in the game. They want me to be successful and show them what type of player I'm going to be for Wisconsin."

Toon said the decision to commit early to the Badgers was an easy one.

"I think the biggest thing was that they showed a big amount of interest in me early on," Toon said. "They offered early, and that meant a lot to me. It was very exciting to get that first offer, and I've always loved the coaching staff. I really liked the school, and I love Madison.

"I didn't want to leave home. I had no desire to leave my family, and this way I can be close and watch my sisters grow up. I also think I can have good success there in the style of offense they run. It's pretty balanced and it's a lot like the one we run here at my high school."

Toon hopes to put on a show for Badgers fans.

"My speed and my hands are my biggest strengths," Toon said. "Those are the things you have to have to be a good receiver. I'm excited to go up against defensive backs that will challenge me more than I have faced this season."

In the game, Toon plans on using a lot of things that his dad has taught him.

"If I have a question, he helps me out with it," Toon said. "If he notices little things, he'll tell me about it. He has helped me out a lot over the years. I wouldn't be here now without him."